Charles N’Zogbia started Sunderland’s 2-1 friendly win over Rotherham on Saturday as he bids to earn a full-time contract.

N’Zogbia was invited for a trial by former manager Sam Allardyce – who succeeded Roy Hodgson as England boss on Friday – and the midfielder has been working hard in pre-season to earn a permanent stay.

The 30-year-old, who played for rivals Newcastle United from 2004-09, looked impressive in the clash at the New York Stadium as he was deployed in a deeper role.

With the new Premier League season on the horizon there is little time for the Frenchman to prove his worth, with the Black Cats having scheduled three more friendlies this month.

N’Zogbia’s future will now be decided by David Moyes after the ex-Manchester United, Everton and Real Sociedad boss was confirmed as Allardyce’s replacement.

It is unclear how the former Magpie would be accepted at the Stadium of Light but if he continues to produce displays like the one witnessed against the Millers, it will be hard to turn him away.